Velella velella are small carnivorous animals related to jellyfish and do sting, but not enough to harm people.

"There is no way they could survive," said Tofino Mayor Josie Osborne, a marine biologist. "They are ocean creatures that are normally found hundreds of miles off-shore in the Pacific. It is a rare event, but a natural event for them to wash up on shore."

Now the District of Tofino will also let nature conduct the cleanup.

The creatures will start rotting, likely causing a bit of a stink, but no other harm.

Osborne says it should only last a few days.

No one knows if more Velella velella will be coming ashore. They can't swim, so their movements are dictated by the wind and the current — far from the coast.

Velella velella are small carnivorous animals related to jellyfish and do sting, but not enough to harm people. (CHEK TV)

Note: The CBC does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comments, you acknowledge that CBC has the right to reproduce, broadcast and publicize those comments or any part thereof in any manner whatsoever. Please note that comments are moderated and published according to our submission guidelines.